At Macaroni KID Richmond & Chesterfield, we are dedicated to helping local kids learn, grow, and shine. One of the most impactful ways to do that is by investing in youth entrepreneurship. For years, my colleagues and I from the Youth Business Exchange has proudly hosted the Richmond Children’s Business Fair, giving kids across our community a real-world platform to pitch, sell, and see their hard work pay off. As a co-founder and supporter, I personally know firsthand that when a child creates something of their own, they discover their true potential.
This summer, we are expanding that commitment through an exciting collaboration with Kids Markets, an organization that perfectly aligns with our mission to keep youth entrepreneurship alive and thriving in RVA.
What is Kids Markets?
Kids Markets is nationwide movement that gives children the opportunity to launch and run their own mini businesses by selling real products for real money at local community events. The program is designed to help kids aged 5–17 (with some programs starting at 7–17) gain hands-on experience in entrepreneurship, business skills, and customer interaction. Kids Markets believes entrepreneurship is more than making money. It’s about discovering potential, learning from challenges, and developing the courage to try. Every booth becomes a lesson. Every sale becomes a win. Every idea becomes a spark. These markets often take place alongside farmers markets and special events, giving kids another fantastic opportunity to showcase their innovations alongside the Richmond and Midlothian Children's Business Fairs.
Kids Markets Mission: To ignite the entrepreneurial spirit in kids by giving them real opportunities to create, sell, and succeed—through hands‑on market experiences that build confidence, creativity, and life skills.
Join the Summer Launch
Registration is officially open for the largest Kids Markets Summer Launch yet. When families register, young entrepreneurs receive the tools and support they need to launch with confidence, including:
- A Kids Markets T-shirt
- A full Entrepreneur Curriculum to guide their business planning
- A built-in marketplace of real-world customers ready to support their ideas
Every great business starts with a single spark. Give your child the chance to turn their creativity into reality this summer.
To learn more, view upcoming market dates, and secure your child’s booth space, visit KidsMarkets.com.
Summer 2026 Kids Markets Lineup
Scroll below to find out where you can support our local youth entrepreneurs:
